This verse encourages believers to persevere in doing good, despite the challenges posed by adversaries.
David, the traditional author of Psalm 38, declares in this verse, “And those who repay evil for good, They are my adversaries, because I follow what is good.” (v.20) This proclamation highlights the paradox of encountering opposition precisely for doing righteous deeds. Historically, David ruled as king of Israel from around 1010 BC to 970 BC, and he experienced many times when adversaries rose against him unjustly. His words here reflect the sorrow of anyone who has given kindness yet only received hostility in return. The reference to “repay evil for good” contrasts heavenly principles found throughout the Bible: those who do good often face hardship in an unjust world, a theme echoed by Jesus, who warned His followers of similar opposition (John 15:18).
When David cries out about these adversaries, “because I follow what is good” (v.20), he gives a strong reason for the hostility: wrongdoing stands opposed to righteousness. In following what is good, the psalmist positions himself within God’s protective boundaries of truth and upright living. This often results in friction with those who thrive on deceit or wrongdoing, reminding believers that standing for goodness means stepping into spiritual battles. Although the psalmist’s immediate troubles may appear overwhelming, this verse gently underscores that God still sees and defends His people, offering a deeper assurance that goodness will ultimately prevail.
God’s people should remember that righteous living can incur the anger of those who do not love righteousness. Even Jesus in the New Testament experienced hostile forces while pursuing the will of His Father, and He taught His followers that opposition is part of the journey of faith (John 15:20).
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Psalms 38:20 meaning
David, the traditional author of Psalm 38, declares in this verse, “And those who repay evil for good, They are my adversaries, because I follow what is good.” (v.20) This proclamation highlights the paradox of encountering opposition precisely for doing righteous deeds. Historically, David ruled as king of Israel from around 1010 BC to 970 BC, and he experienced many times when adversaries rose against him unjustly. His words here reflect the sorrow of anyone who has given kindness yet only received hostility in return. The reference to “repay evil for good” contrasts heavenly principles found throughout the Bible: those who do good often face hardship in an unjust world, a theme echoed by Jesus, who warned His followers of similar opposition (John 15:18).
When David cries out about these adversaries, “because I follow what is good” (v.20), he gives a strong reason for the hostility: wrongdoing stands opposed to righteousness. In following what is good, the psalmist positions himself within God’s protective boundaries of truth and upright living. This often results in friction with those who thrive on deceit or wrongdoing, reminding believers that standing for goodness means stepping into spiritual battles. Although the psalmist’s immediate troubles may appear overwhelming, this verse gently underscores that God still sees and defends His people, offering a deeper assurance that goodness will ultimately prevail.
God’s people should remember that righteous living can incur the anger of those who do not love righteousness. Even Jesus in the New Testament experienced hostile forces while pursuing the will of His Father, and He taught His followers that opposition is part of the journey of faith (John 15:20).